Central Mongolia is distinguished by its lush greenery, pristine freshwater lakes, impressive waterfalls, and a host of culturally significant sites. The Orkhon River basin stands out as a region of great historic importance, having played a key role in the development of Central Asia’s nomadic culture. Since prehistoric times, the area has witnessed ongoing interactions between people and their natural and social environments.
This landscape is dotted with a variety of historic landmarks and ruins, including monuments, monasteries, and temples. Many of these sites are considered to hold universal value, offering insight into the enduring presence and influence of human societies in Central Asia. The Orkhon Valley itself serves as a testament to this continuous human occupation.
Participants on this tour will have the opportunity to observe local wildlife, such as the Takhi horses, camels, and hawks. The itinerary features stops at several notable locations, including the Tsenher Hot Springs, Khar Khorin—the former capital of Mongolia—and the ‘mini-Gobi,’ where visitors can enjoy camel riding. Lake Terkhiin Tsagaan, a remarkable body of water that spans 16 kilometers in width, 20 kilometers in length, reaches a depth of 20 meters, and covers a total area of 61 square kilometers. The lake’s freshwater environment supports a diverse array of fish and bird species.
Northern Mongolia is equally renowned for its outdoor activities and rich opportunities to observe wildlife. Lake Khuvsgul, containing 65 percent of Mongolia’s freshwater, is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The surrounding mountains and forests serve as habitats for over sixty different wildlife species, making the region a prime destination for nature enthusiasts.
Once you are in the countryside exploring Mongolia it is our preference to stay with local nomadic family run ger camps. Gers will be shared by 4-5 travellers when we stay with a local family ger camps (only your group of travellers). As a Mongolian company we prefer to support these families financially, and help support their livelihood. We are sure this resonates with our travelers who enjoy engaging with their culture and way of life on the steppe. As well as directly supporting local herders, you can experience this rich traditional way of life first hand.
Please consider that travelling in the countryside of Mongolia can be quite remote. There are often no paved roads so driving can be bumpy and can take a little longer than you might be used to. Also, given the remoteness, western style comforts may not be available.
Western style and luxury options are available in some parts of Mongolia in the form of Tourist ger camps. Ger camps have comfortable beds, hot showers and western style amenities. These are not included in the price quoted in this itinerary. However, if you think that you would prefer to have access to these western style comforts then please let us know and we can adjust the quote for your itinerary.
Tour departure times can be flexible, however due to heavy traffic 7 am on the morning of departure is recommended. The driver and guide can pick you up from the airport, train station, or your accommodation to suit your requirements.
Most of the meals on this tour are included in the tour price including breakfast in the hotel in Ulaanbaatar. All included meals will be prepared from fresh local produce. The majority of the shopping for food will be done before the trip departs, and fresh goods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, will be bought en-route during the trip from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads or local restaurants. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. Our GUIDE will organize the meal preparation and lead the way here. Vegetarian meals and other dietary requirements can be catered for but need to be specified prior to arrival.
Summer months in Mongolia are from early June to mid-September. Although the Mongolian summers are hot and dry with occasional rain, the temperature can fluctuate as much 16-20 degrees centigrade between day and night. So be prepared for all weather conditions.
Sleeping bag (we can provide clean sleeping bags if you prefer), sunscreen, long and short underwear for travel in the high mountains, comfortable footwear, lip balm, sanitary hand wipes, sunglasses, prescription medications (if needed), rain gear, flashlight and sleeping bag liner.
